I'm using VB 2005 Professional and SQL 2005 Developer Center w/ SP2, I tried to connect my VB application to a database via "Tools-->Connect to Database..." I change the datasource in "Advanced" setting from .\SQLEXPRESS to .\MSSQLSERVER then browse for the database. It times out and gives me error 25 - connection string is not valid.

I have enabled things like TCP/IP, Named Pipes, Shared Memory and even Start ALL SQL services. I don't know what else i can do at this point. I'm checking settings from inetmgr.exe (IIS) to SQL Server Configuration Manager, still no good. I should be able to at least browse for a database in the "Server Explorer" in VB .NET 2005, but that isn't not working.

My friend's connection work and we can't figure out why and what's causing it on my machines both laptop and desktop. If someone can maybe help me out here I'd greatly appreciate it.